Michael G. Martin: Shoulder & Knee Orthopedic Surgeon, M.D.
Shoulder Pain
Dr. Michael Martin treats a wide range of shoulder problems, which are some of the most common reasons patients seek orthopedic care. Many patients experience shoulder pain due to tendon inflammation or tears in the rotator cuff, which may develop over time or result from injury. Arthritis, instability, fractures, and overuse injuries can also cause significant pain and limit motion.
When evaluating shoulder conditions, Dr. Martin considers both non-surgical and surgical options depending on the severity of the problem. Non-surgical treatments may include physical therapy, medications, or injections to reduce inflammation and improve function. If surgery is necessary, he offers procedures such as arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, labral repair, shoulder stabilization, and shoulder replacement when appropriate.
With a focus on restoring full function, Dr. Martin works closely with patients to relieve pain and return them to their normal activities. Whether dealing with an acute injury or a chronic condition, his goal is to improve strength, stability, and range of motion for long-term shoulder health.
5 Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is an extremely common complaint, and most people will suffer with it at some point in their lifetime. Sometimes an injury is responsible for shoulder pain but more commonly the problem develops without an obvious cause. Here are the 5 most common causes of shoulder pain that aren’t related to an injury:
- Bursitis and Tendonitis
Inflammation can start in thin fluid filled sacks called bursae and in tendons and cause significant shoulder pain and loss of function. The pain can be activity related and it can hurt at night, keeping you from sleeping! Usually this is related to repetitive activity or overuse, but it can also happen without a clear cause.
- Impingement Syndrome
Sometimes due to muscle weakness or even bone spurs, the rotator cuff tendon will become pinched (or impinged) between the arm bone and the shoulder bone causing pain and damage to the tissues. If this problem is not treated it can lead to more severe issues like a rotator cuff tendon tear.
- Arthritis
This is a condition that causes damage to the cartilage that forms our joint surfaces. The result of the damage is pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function. Most often people with shoulder arthritis have problems in other joints as well, but sometimes it is isolated to the shoulder.
- Rotator Cuff Tear
The shoulder joint has more motion than other joints do, and that is due to its many tendons and ligaments that provide strength and stability. The most important of these structures is the rotator cuff tendon. Sometimes that tendon will become worn to the point of tearing and if it does it can cause pain and problems with using your shoulder and arm. The hallmark of a rotator cuff tear is pain trying to raise your arm.
- Adhesive Capsulitis
Adhesive capsulitis, also called Frozen shoulder, is inflammation of the shoulder capsule and involves stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Signs and symptoms typically begin slowly, then get worse. Over time, symptoms get better, usually within 1 to 3 years. There is no known cause for frozen shoulder, but it is more common in women over 40, diabetics, and people who have injuries to their shoulder.
These are a few examples of common shoulder problems. Dr. Michael Martin is fellowship trained, board certified and has 30 years of experience in diagnosing and treating these, and all other painful shoulder problems. Shoulder pain can be miserable, but there is no need to suffer when you can come get relief with Dr. Martin at Orthosports Associates in Trussville/Birmingham.
Knee Pain
The knee is one of the most commonly injured joints, and Dr. Michael Martin provides expert care for a wide range of knee conditions. Common problems include ligament injuries like ACL and MCL tears, meniscal tears, cartilage damage, and various forms of arthritis that cause stiffness, swelling, and pain. Knee injuries can result from sports, trauma, or wear-and-tear over time.
Dr. Martin offers a full range of treatment options depending on the specific injury and severity. Many knee problems can be managed with physical therapy, bracing, medications, or injections. For more severe cases, surgical options include arthroscopic meniscal repair, ligament reconstruction, and cartilage restoration procedures. His approach focuses on preserving the natural knee joint whenever possible.
Dr. Martin’s goal is to help patients return to an active lifestyle with restored strength and function. Through personalized treatment plans and careful follow-up, he works to reduce pain, improve mobility, and allow patients to resume the activities they enjoy.
Sports Medicine
Sports injuries can affect athletes of all ages and skill levels, and Dr. Michael Martin provides specialized care to address these issues. Whether the injury is sudden or the result of repetitive overuse, common sports injuries include ligament sprains, tendon strains, cartilage injuries, and stress fractures. Without proper treatment, these injuries can worsen or become chronic.
Dr. Martin focuses on accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment plans to help athletes recover safely and efficiently. Non-surgical options like physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification are often effective. When surgery is necessary, minimally invasive procedures can repair damaged tissue and restore joint stability.
In addition to treating injuries, Dr. Martin emphasizes injury prevention and long-term joint health. His goal is to not only return athletes to their sport but also to reduce the risk of re-injury through proper training, rehabilitation, and education on safe athletic practices.
Total Joint Replacement
Joint replacement surgery is often recommended for patients experiencing severe arthritis that limits daily activities. Dr. Michael Martin treats patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and avascular necrosis, all of which can lead to joint deterioration and pain. Joint replacement is one of the most effective procedures to relieve pain and restore function in affected joints.
Dr. Martin performs total joint replacements of the hip, knee, and shoulder using modern techniques and implants designed for durability. Hip replacement options include both anterior and posterior approaches, while knee replacements may involve total or partial procedures depending on the extent of joint damage. Shoulder replacements can include total shoulder arthroplasty or reverse shoulder replacement, depending on the condition of the rotator cuff.
Each procedure is customized to the patient’s specific condition and lifestyle goals. With comprehensive care before, during, and after surgery, Dr. Martin helps patients achieve improved mobility, reduced pain, and a return to active living following joint replacement.
About Dr. Martin
Dr. Michael Martin is an experienced orthopedic surgeon who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. He offers a wide range of treatment options for shoulder and knee pain, including surgical and non-surgical options.
Dr. Martin understands the importance of personalized care and takes the time to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. He is committed to educating his patients about their condition and all available treatment options, ensuring that his patients are well-informed and comfortable with their treatment plan. If you are experiencing shoulder or knee pain, please don't hesitate to contact Dr. Martin's office to schedule an appointment.